One of the hardest things is not knowing how many will attend. I can't gauge it well as he was 91, so many of his friends and colleagues have passed and the generational mix is a little strange so not sure if my cousins will bring their children or now. For RFPs, I'm guessing 50-60.
Dad spent most of his career a law professor, but prior to that worked at a large law firm and served as assistant state's attorney. During those days, he resided and spent a lot of time on Beacon Hill. So I've looked at places in that area. Mom and he married at the Harvard Club. So, looking in Cambridge as well. He was a sailor, so looking at places on the waterfront also. That said, the Last Celebration of Life of a family member in Boston proper was at Legal Seafood Harborside. I don't want to play copycat, plus I don't eat seafood, so that's out. Also, my sister and family are vegan. My two closest cousins wives' are from Italian families, so a bit nervous to go with Italian food unless it is really fantastic. My mom uses a walker, I have an aunt in a wheelchair, my son is unwell and has mobility challenges, so accessibility matters. Parking probably would be nice.
I've tried and there is no availability for the needed dates at the university or Boston Public Library tea room, which were my top picks of where he would have wanted to go. His favorite restaurants are out of business...
It's just hard to figure out.